Sony NEX-5N-S User Manual

4-288-916-12(1)

NEX-5N

Interchangeable Lens
Digital Camera

Instruction Manual

E-mount

Preparing the camera

Mastering the basic
operation

Using the recording
functions

Using the playback
functions

Checking the functions
available

Importing images to the
computer

Others

©2011 Sony Corporation Printed in Thailand

NEX-5N

Printed using VOC (Volatile Organic
Compound)-free vegetable oil based ink.

Additional information on this product and
answers to frequently asked questions can be
found at our Customer Support Website.

English

Owner’s Record

The model and serial numbers are located on the bottom. Record the serial number in the
space provided below. Refer to these numbers whenever you call upon your Sony dealer
regarding this product.

Model No. NEX-5N

Serial No. ______________________________

WARNING

To reduce fire or shock hazard, do not expose the unit to rain or
moisture.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

-SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
DANGER

-TO REDUCE THE RISK OF FIRE OR
ELECTRIC SHOCK, CAREFULLY FOLLOW
THESE INSTRUCTIONS

If the shape of the plug does not fit the power outlet, use an attachment plug adaptor of the
proper configuration for the power outlet.

CAUTION

[ Battery pack

If the battery pack is mishandled, the battery pack can burst, cause a fire or even chemical
burns. Observe the following cautions.

• Do not disassemble.

• Do not crush and do not expose the battery pack to any shock or force such as
hammering, dropping or stepping on it.

• Do not short circuit and do not allow metal objects to come into contact with the battery
terminals.

• Do not expose to high temperature above 60°C (140°F) such as in direct sunlight or in a
car parked in the sun.

• Do not incinerate or dispose of in fire.

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• Do not handle damaged or leaking lithium ion batteries.

2

• Be sure to charge the battery pack using a genuine Sony battery charger or a device that

can charge the battery pack.

• Keep the battery pack out of the reach of small children.

• Keep the battery pack dry.

• Replace only with the same or equivalent type recommended by Sony.

• Dispose of used battery packs promptly as described in the instructions.

[ Battery charger

Even if the CHARGE lamp is not lit, the battery charger is not disconnected from the AC
power source (mains) as long as it is connected to the wall outlet (wall socket). If some
trouble occurs while using the battery charger, immediately shut off the power by
disconnecting the plug from the wall outlet (wall socket).

The power cord (mains lead), if supplied, is designed specifically for use with this camera
only, and should not be used with other electrical equipment.

For Customers in the U.S.A. and Canada

[ RECYCLING LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES

Lithium-Ion batteries are recyclable.
You can help preserve our environment by returning your used
rechargeable batteries to the collection and recycling location nearest
you.

For more information regarding recycling of rechargeable batteries,
call toll free
1-800-822-8837, or visit http://www.rbrc.org/

Caution: Do not handle damaged or leaking Lithium-Ion batteries.

[ Battery pack and lens

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following
two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.

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3

For Customers in the U.S.A.

UL is an internationally recognized safety organization.
The UL Mark on the product means it has been UL Listed.

If you have any questions about this product, you may call:

Sony Customer Information Center
1-800-222-SONY (7669)

The number below is for the FCC related matters only.

[ Regulatory Information

Declaration of Conformity

Trade Name: SONY
Model No.: NEX-5N
Responsible Party: Sony Electronics Inc.
Address: 16530 Via Esprillo, San Diego, CA 92127 U.S.A.
Telephone No.: 858-942-2230

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2)
this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation.

[ CAUTION

You are cautioned that any changes or modifications not expressly approved in this manual
could void your authority to operate this equipment.

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4

[ Note:

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital
device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules.
These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in
a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency
energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause
harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the
equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or
more of the following measures:
– Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
– Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
– Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the

receiver is connected.

– Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

The supplied interface cable must be used with the equipment in order to comply with the
limits for a digital device pursuant to Subpart B of Part 15 of FCC Rules.

For Customers in Europe

[ Notice for the customers in the countries applying EU Directives

The manufacturer of this product is Sony Corporation, 1-7-1 Konan Minato-ku Tokyo,
108-0075 Japan. The Authorized Representative for EMC and product safety is Sony
Deutschland GmbH, Hedelfinger Strasse 61, 70327 Stuttgart, Germany. For any service or
guarantee matters please refer to the addresses given in separate service or guarantee
documents.

This product has been tested and found compliant with the limits set out in the EMC
Directive for using connection cables shorter than 3 meters (9.8 feet).

[ Attention

The electromagnetic fields at the specific frequencies may influence the picture and sound
of this unit.

[ Notice

If static electricity or electromagnetism causes data transfer to discontinue midway (fail),
restart the application or disconnect and connect the communication cable (USB, etc.)
again.

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5

[ Disposal of Old Electrical & Electronic Equipment (Applicable in

the European Union and other European countries with separate
collection systems)

This symbol on the product or on its packaging indicates that this product
shall not be treated as household waste. Instead it shall be handed over to
the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical and electronic
equipment. By ensuring this product is disposed of correctly, you will help
prevent potential negative consequences for the environment and human
health, which could otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling
of this product. The recycling of materials will help to conserve natural

please contact your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop
where you purchased the product.

resources. For more detailed information about recycling of this product,

[ Disposal of waste batteries (applicable in the European Union

and other European countries with separate collection systems)

This symbol on the battery or on the packaging indicates that the battery
provided with this product shall not be treated as household waste.
On certain batteries this symbol might be used in combination with a
chemical symbol. The chemical symbols for mercury (Hg) or lead (Pb) are
added if the battery contains more than 0.0005% mercury or 0.004% lead.

potentially negative consequences for the environment and human health which could
otherwise be caused by inappropriate waste handling of the battery. The recycling of the
materials will help to conserve natural resources.
In case of products that for safety, performance or data integrity reasons require a
permanent connection with an incorporated battery, this battery should be replaced by
qualified service staff only. To ensure that the battery will be treated properly, hand over
the product at end-of-life to the applicable collection point for the recycling of electrical
and electronic equipment.
For all other batteries, please view the section on how to remove the battery from the
product safely.
Hand the battery over to the applicable collection point for the recycling of waste batteries.
For more detailed information about recycling of this product or battery, please contact
your local Civic Office, your household waste disposal service or the shop where you
purchased the product.

By ensuring these batteries are disposed of correctly, you will help prevent

Notice for customers in the United Kingdom

A moulded plug complying with BS 1363 is fitted to this equipment for your safety and
convenience.
Should the fuse in the plug supplied need to be replaced, a fuse of the same rating as the
supplied one and approved by ASTA or BSI to BS 1362, (i.e., marked with an or
mark) must be used.
If the plug supplied with this equipment has a detachable fuse cover, be sure to attach the
fuse cover after you change the fuse. Never use the plug without the fuse cover. If you

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should lose the fuse cover, please contact your nearest Sony service station.

6

Table of contents

Preparing the camera

Checking the supplied items ..............................................9

Identifying parts ................................................................10

Charging the battery pack ................................................15

Inserting the charged battery pack ..................................17

Attaching/removing the lens .............................................19

Inserting a memory card (sold separately) .......................21

Attaching the flash ............................................................23

Turning on the camera and setting up the date ...............25

Mastering the basic operation

Shooting still images .........................................................27

Recording movies .............................................................29

Playing back images ........................................................30

Deleting images ................................................................32

Operating the camera .......................................................33

Using the guide function of the camera ...........................37

Using the recording functions

Setting the function using Photo Creativity ....................... 38

Adjusting the brightness of still images (Exposure

compensation).................................................................. 41

Using the self-timer........................................................... 41

Shooting still images continuously.................................... 42

Changing the screen display (DISP) ................................ 43

Shooting with various drive modes................................... 44

Selecting the flash mode .................................................. 48

Selecting the image size/record setting ........................... 49

Using the playback functions

Enlarging the playback image (Enlarge Image) ............... 52

Displaying the image list................................................... 53

Viewing images on a TV ................................................... 54

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7

Checking the functions available

Menu list ........................................................................... 55

Functions available for each shooting mode ................... 63

Flash modes available...................................................... 64

Importing images to the computer

Installing the software....................................................... 65

What you can do with the supplied software ................... 67

Creating a disc of movies................................................. 68

Others

Checking the number of recordable images ................... 70

List of icons on the LCD monitor ...................................... 73

Learning more about the camera (α Handbook) ............. 77

Troubleshooting................................................................ 78

Precautions....................................................................... 82

Specifications................................................................... 87

Index................................................................................. 92

This manual covers several models supplied with different lenses.
The model name varies depending on the supplied lens. The available model varies
depending on the countries/regions.

Model name Lens

NEX-5N None

NEX-5ND E18 – 55 mm and E16 mm

NEX-5NK E18 – 55 mm

NEX-5NY E55 – 210 mm and E18 – 55 mm

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Preparing the camera

Checking the supplied items

First check the model name of your camera (page 8). The accessories supplied
differ depending on the model.
The number in parentheses indicates the number of pieces.

x

Common accessories

• Camera (1)

• Battery charger BC-VW1 (1)

• Power cord (mains lead) (1) (not

supplied in the U.S.A. and Canada)

• Rechargeable battery pack

NP-FW50 (1)

• USB cable (1)

• Shoulder strap (1)

• Flash HVL-F7S (1)/Flash case (1)

•CD-ROM (1)
– Application Software for

α camera

– α Handbook

• Instruction Manual (This manual)
(1)

x

NEX-5N

• Body cap (1) (attached to the
camera)

x

NEX-5ND

• E16 mm single focus lens (1)/Front
lens cap (1)/Rear lens cap (1)

• E18 – 55 mm zoom lens (1)/Front
lens cap (1) (attached to the
camera)/Lens hood (1)

x

NEX-5NK

• E18 – 55 mm zoom lens (1)/Front
lens cap (1) (attached to the
camera)/Lens hood (1)

x

NEX-5NY

• E18 – 55 mm zoom lens (1)/Front
lens cap (1) (attached to the
camera)/Lens hood (1)

• E55 – 210 mm zoom lens (1)/Front
lens cap (1)/Rear lens cap (1)/Lens
hood (1)

Preparing the camera

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9

Identifying parts

See the pages in parentheses for details of operation.

Preparing the camera

When the lens is removed

A ON/OFF (Power) switch (25)
B Shutter button (28)
C Remote sensor
D AF illuminator/Self-timer lamp/

Smile Shutter lamp

E Speaker
F Microphone

1)

G Smart Accessory Terminal 2 2)

(23)

H Lens (19)
I Lens release button (20)
J Mount
K Image sensor
L Lens contacts

1)

Do not cover this part during movie
recording.

2)

Accessories for the Smart
Accessory Terminal can be also
attached.

3)

Do not touch this part directly.

3)

3)

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A (USB) terminal
B Hook for shoulder strap

Attaching the shoulder strap is
recommended not to drop the
camera.

C HDMI terminal (54)
D Light sensor
E LCD monitor/Touch panel (34)

The tilting LCD monitor of the
camera allows flexible shooting
positions.

F (Playback) button (30)
G MOVIE button (29)
H Control wheel (33)
I Soft keys (34)

Preparing the camera

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11

x

Flash HVL-F7S

Preparing the camera

A Battery/memory card cover (17,

21)

B Tripod receptacle

• Use a tripod with a screw length
of less than 5.5 mm (7/32 inch).
You will be unable to firmly
secure the camera to tripods
having screws longer than 5.5
mm (7/32 inch), and may damage
the camera.

C Image sensor position mark
D Access lamp (22)
E Battery compartment (17)
F Memory card insertion slot (21)
G Connection plate cover

For using the AC-PW20 AC
Adaptor (sold separately)

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12

A Screw
B Flash*
C Connector*

* Do not touch this part directly.

If it is dirty, wipe it off with a soft
clean cloth.

x

Lens

See page 89 on the specifications of
the lenses.

E18 – 55 mm F3.5-5.6 OSS
(supplied with NEX-5ND/
5NK/5NY)

A Hood index
B Focusing ring
C Zooming ring
D Focal-length scale
E Focal-length index
F Lens contacts*
G Mounting index

E16 mm F2.8 (supplied with
NEX-5ND)

Preparing the camera

A Converter index*
B Focusing ring
C Lens contacts**
D Mounting index

* A converter is sold separately.
** Do not touch this part directly.

* Do not touch this part directly.

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13

E55 – 210 mm F4.5-6.3 OSS
(supplied with NEX-5NY)

Preparing the camera

A Focusing ring
B Zooming ring
C Focal-length scale
D Focal-length index
E Lens contacts*
F Mounting index

* Do not touch this part directly.

14

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Charging the battery pack

When using the camera for the first time, be sure to charge the NP-FW50
“InfoLITHIUM” battery pack (supplied).
The “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack can be charged even when it has not been
fully depleted. It can also be used when it has not been fully charged.

Insert the battery pack onto the

1

battery charger.

• Push the battery pack until it clicks.

Preparing the camera

Connect the battery charger to

2

the wall outlet (wall socket).

Estimated charging
time

• Time required to charge a fully depleted
battery pack at a temperature of 25 °C
(77 °F).

• The CHARGE lamp turns off when
charging is finished.

250 minutes

For the U.S.A and Canada

Plug

CHARGE lamp

For countries/regions other
than the U.S.A. and Canada

CHARGE lamp

Power cord (mains lead)

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15

Notes

• The charging time differs depending on the remaining capacity of the battery pack
or charging conditions.

• We recommend charging the battery pack in an ambient temperature of between
10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F and 86 °F). You may not be able to efficiently charge the
battery pack outside of this temperature range.

• Connect the battery charger to the nearest wall outlet (wall socket).

• The CHARGE lamp may flash quickly when the battery pack is used for the first
time, or the battery pack has not been used for a long time. In such cases, remove
the battery pack from the charger and re-attach it, then charge the battery pack.

Preparing the camera

• Do not try to charge the battery pack again right after it has been charged, or when
it has not been used after being charged. Doing so will affect the performance of
the battery pack.

z Using your camera abroad — Power source

You can use your camera and battery charger, and the AC-PW20 AC Adaptor
(sold separately) in any countries/regions where the power supply is within
100 V to 240 V AC, 50 Hz/60 Hz.
An electronic voltage transformer is unnecessary and its use may cause a
malfunction.

16

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Inserting the charged battery pack

While sliding the cover open

1

lever, open the cover.

Firmly insert the battery pack

2

all the way while pressing the
lock lever with the tip of the
battery.

Lock lever

Close the cover.

3

x

Checking the remaining battery level

Check the level with the following indicators and percent figures displayed on
the LCD monitor.

“Battery

Battery level

High Low

exhausted.”

You cannot
shoot any more
image.

Preparing the camera

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17

Note

• The displayed level may not be correct under certain circumstances.

z What is an “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack?

An “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack is a lithium-ion battery pack that has functions
for exchanging information related to operating conditions with your camera.
Using the “InfoLITHIUM” battery pack, the remaining battery time in percent
figures is displayed according to the operating conditions of your camera.

Preparing the camera

x

Removing the battery pack

Turn off the camera, make sure that the
access lamp is not lit, slide the lock lever
in the direction of the arrow, and pull out
the battery pack. Be careful not to drop the
battery pack.

Lock lever

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Attaching/removing the lens

Set the power switch of the camera to OFF before you attach or remove the
lens.

If the cap or the packaging lid

1

is attached, remove it from the
camera or the lens.

• Quickly change the lens somewhere
away from dusty locations so as to
keep dust or debris from getting
inside the camera.

Mount the lens by aligning the

2

white index marks on the lens
and the camera.

• Hold the camera’s face downward
to prevent the dust from entering
into the camera.

White index marks

While pushing the lens lightly

3

toward the camera, turn the
lens clockwise until it clicks
into the locked position.

• Be sure to put the lens on straight.

Preparing the camera

Notes

• When attaching a lens, do not press the lens release button.

• Do not use force when attaching a lens.

• The Mount Adaptor (sold separately) is required to use an A-mount lens (sold
separately). For details, refer to the operating manual supplied with the Mount
Adaptor.

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19

x

Removing the lens

Press the lens release button

1

all the way in and turn the lens
counterclockwise until it
stops.

Preparing the camera

Notes

• When changing the lens, if dust or debris gets inside the camera and adheres to the
surface of the image sensor (the part that acts as the film), it may appear as dark
spots on the image, depending on the shooting environment. The camera vibrates
slightly when it is turned off, due to the anti-dust function, to prevent dust from
adhering to the image sensor. However, attach or remove the lens quickly
somewhere away from dusty locations.

• Do not leave the camera with the lens removed.

• When you want to use body caps or rear lens caps, please purchase ALC-B1EM
(Body cap) or ALC-R1EM (Rear lens cap) (sold separately).

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Lens release button

20

Inserting a memory card (sold separately)

Open the cover.

1

Insert a memory card.

2

• Insert the memory card until it
clicks as illustrated.

Preparing the camera

Check on the direction of the

Close the cover.

3

x

Memory cards that you can use

You can use following types of memory cards with this camera. However,
proper operation cannot be guaranteed for all types of the memory cards.

Usable memory card Still

image

“Memory Stick PRO Duo”
media

“Memory Stick PRO-HG
Duo” media

SD memory card (Class 4 or more) SD card

SDHC memory card (Class 4 or more)

SDXC memory card (Class 4 or more)

You cannot use MultiMediaCard.

Movie Term in this

(Mark2) “Memory Stick

notched corner.

manual

PRO Duo” media

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21

Note

• Images recorded on an SDXC memory card cannot be imported to or played on
computers or AV devices that are not compatible with exFAT. Make sure that the
device is compatible with exFAT before connecting it to the camera. If you
connect your camera to an incompatible device, you may be prompted to format
the card. Never format the card in response to this prompt, as doing so will erase
all data on the card. (exFAT is the file system used on SDXC memory cards.)

x

Removing the memory card

Preparing the camera

Open the cover, make sure that the access
lamp is not lit, and push the memory card
once.

Access lamp

Note

• When the access lamp is lit, do not remove the memo ry card or the battery pack, or
turn off the power. The data may be corrupted.

22

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Attaching the flash

When you want to use a flash during shooting, attach the flash device
(supplied).
The flash is enabled when it is raised, and disabled when lowered.
Set the power switch of the camera to OFF before you attach or remove the
flash.

Attach the flash to the Smart

1

Accessory Terminal 2 of the
camera.

Fasten the screw to secure the flash.

2

To fire the flash, raise the

3

flash first.

• The default setting is [Autoflash].
To change the setting, see page 48.

• Lower the flash when you do not
intend to use it.

Notes

• The power for the flash is provided from the camera. When the camera is charging
the flash, blinks on the LCD monitor. You cannot press the shutter button
when this icon is blinking.

• Plug the flash fully into the accessory terminal of the camera, and fasten the screw
securely. Make sure that the flash is attached to the camera securely.

Preparing the camera

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23

z Carrying the flash

Preparing the camera

The flash case can be conveniently attached to
the shoulder strap.
Put the flash in the case when you are not using
it to protect it from harm.

24

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Turning on the camera and setting up the date

When you turn on the camera for the first time, the screen to set date and time
appears.

Set the power switch to ON to

1

turn on the camera.

The screen to set date and time
appears.

• To turn off the camera, set the
power switch to OFF.

Press the center of the control

2

wheel. Or, touch OK on the
screen.

Select your area by pressing

3

the right or left of the control
wheel and press the center.

Press the left or right of the

4

control wheel to select each
item, and press the top or
bottom, or turn it to select the
numeric value.

Daylight Svg.: Turns on or off the
daytime saving time setting.
Date Format: Selects the format to
display date.

• Midnight is indicated as 12:00 AM,
and noon as 12:00 PM.

Preparing the camera

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25

Repeat step 4 to set other items, then press the center of

5

the control wheel. Or, touch OK on the screen.

Notes

• You cannot set the date, time and area by touching the screen.

• You cannot superimpose the date on images on this camera. Using “PMB” stored
on the

CD-ROM (supplied), you can save or print images with date. Refer to

“PMB Help” for more details (page 67).

Preparing the camera

x

Resetting the date and time/Checking the current
clock setting

Select MENU t [Setup] t [Date/Time Setup] (page 33, 61).

x

Maintaining the date and time setting

This camera has an internal rechargeable battery for maintaining the date and
time and other settings regardless of whether the power is on or off, or the
battery is installed or not. For details, see page 84.

26

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Mastering the basic operation

Shooting still images

In the (Intelligent Auto) mode, the camera analyzes the subject, and
allows you to shoot with appropriate settings.

Set the power switch to ON to turn on the camera.

1

Point the camera to the

2

subject.

When the camera recognizes the
scene, the Scene Recognition icon
and guide appear on the LCD
monitor: (Night Scene), (Tripod
Night Scene), (Night Portrait),

(Backlight), (Backlight

Portrait), (Portrait),

(Landscape), (Macro),

(Spotlight), (Low Brightness),

or (Baby).

When using a zoom lens, turn

3

the zoom ring, then decide on
your shot.

• Optical zooming is not available
with a single focus lens.

Scene Recognition icon and guide

Zoom ring

Mastering the basic operation

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27

Press the shutter button

4

halfway down to focus.

When the focus is confirmed, beeps
sound and z lights up.

Mastering the basic operation

Focus indicator

Press the shutter button fully down to shoot.

5

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Recording movies

Set the power switch to ON to turn on the camera.

1

Point the camera to the subject.

2

Press the MOVIE button to

3

start recording.

• Focus and brightness are adjusted
automatically.

• If you press the shutter button
halfway down during recording,
you will be able to focus more
quickly.

Press the MOVIE button again to stop recording.

4

Notes

• The sound of the camera and the lens in operation might be recorded while

recording a movie. You can disable the sound recording by selecting MENU t
[Setup] t [Movie Audio Rec] t [Off] (page 61).

• The continuous recording time of a movie depends on the ambient temperature or
the condition of the camera.

• When you are recording continuously for a long time, you may feel that the
camera is warm. This is normal. Also, “Camera overheating. Allow it to cool.”
may appear. In such cases, turn the camera off and wait until the camera is ready to
shoot again.

MOVIE button

Mastering the basic operation

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29

Playing back images

Press the (Playback)

1

button.

The last recorded image is displayed
on the LCD monitor.

Mastering the basic operation

x

Selecting the image

Turn the control wheel. Or, slide the screen left or right.

x

Playing back movies

Select MENU t [Playback]

1

t [View Mode] t [Folder
View(MP4)] or [AVCHD View].

• To return to still image playback,
select [Folder View(Still)].

Turn the control wheel to select the desired movie, and

2

press the center. Or, touch the desired movie.

(Playback) button

30

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During movie playback Control wheel operation

Pause/resume Press the center. Touch X/N.

Fast-forward Press the right, or turn it

clockwise.

Fast-rewind Press the left, or turn it

counterclockwise.

Forward slow playback Turn clockwise during pause. Touch

Reverse slow playback* Turn counterclockwise during

pause.

Adjust sound volume Press the bottom t top/bottom. –

* The movie is played back frame-by-frame.

Touch panel
operation

Touch M.

Touch m.

during pause.

Touch
during pause.

Mastering the basic operation

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31

Deleting images

You can delete the image that is currently displayed.

Display the desired image,

1

and press (Delete).
Or, touch on the screen.

Mastering the basic operation

Press the center of the control

2

wheel. Or, touch OK on the
screen.

• Select to quit the operation.

z To delete several images

Select MENU t [Playback] t [Delete] to select and delete several images at
the same time.

OK

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Operating the camera

The control wheel, soft keys and touch panel allow you to use various
functions of the camera.

x

Control wheel

When shooting, DISP (Display Contents), (Exposure Comp.) and
(Drive Mode) functions are assigned to the control wheel. When playing back,
DISP (Display Contents) and (Image Index) functions are assigned to the
control wheel.
When you turn or press the top/bottom/right/left parts of the control wheel
following the on-screen display, you can select setting items. Your selection is
determined when you press the center of the control wheel.

The arrow means you can turn the
control wheel.

When options are displayed on the
screen, you can browse through
them by turning or pressing the top/
bottom/left/right parts of the control
wheel. Press the center to make
your choice.

Mastering the basic operation

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33

x

Soft keys

The soft keys have different roles, depending on the context.
The assigned role (function) of each soft key is shown on the screen.
To use the function shown at the upper right corner of the screen, press soft
key A. To use the function shown at the lower right corner of the screen, press
soft key B. To use the function shown at the center, press the center of the
control wheel (soft key C).
In this manual, the soft keys are indicated by the icon or the function shown on
the screen.

In this case, soft key A works

Mastering the basic operation

x

Touch panel

A

as the MENU (Menu) button,
and soft key B as the ? (Shoot.

C

Tips) button. Soft key C works
as the MODE (Shoot Mode)

B

button.

You can operate the camera intuitively by touching or sliding your finger on
the screen. Touch the item on the screen to select it. Slide your finger on the
screen to scroll down to hidden items.

Touch the item to select it.

34

Sliding your finger on the screen will scroll
the items. Items on the screen are
replaced with ones that were out of view.

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x

Operations

You can select items and make settings in two ways; one is using the control
wheel, the other is touching and sliding your finger on the screen (Touch
panel).

Operation Control wheel Touch panel

To select an item Turn or press the top/bottom/

left/right parts, and then press
the center.

Touch the desired item.

Mastering the basic operation

To display a
hidden item

To set a value or
adjust the
defocusing level

To play the next
or the previous
image

Keep turning or pressing the
top/bottom parts until the item
scrolls onto the screen.

Turn it. Slide the indicator with your

Turn it or press the left/right
parts.

Slide your finger up or down
on the screen until the item
scrolls into view.

finger.

Slide your finger left or right
on the playback screen.

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35

Notes

• You can perform most operations with both the control wheel/soft keys and the
touch panel. However, some operations can be done only with one or the other.

• Avoid the followings:
– Using a pointed object, such as a pencil, ball-point pen, or the tip of a finger nail.
– Holding the camera by touching the screen.

• The touch panel may not react when you attempt to operate it with gloves on.

Mastering the basic operation

36

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Using the guide function of the camera

The camera provides various “Help Guides” which explain the functions, and
“Shooting Tips” which introduce tips for better shooting. Use these guides to
make better use of the camera.

x

Help Guides

The camera displays the Help Guide to explain the selected function, when
you change the setting, etc.
You can hide the Help Guides by selecting MENU t [Setup] t [Help Guide
Display] t [Off].

x

Shooting tips

The camera displays the shooting tips in accordance with the shooting mode
selected.
1 When ? is displayed at the right bottom corner of the screen, press the

button at the right bottom (page 34). Or, touch ? on the screen.
A list of shooting tips in accordance with the current subject appears

automatically.

?

2 Select the desired shooting tip by pressing the top or bottom of the control

wheel, then press the center.

• Press the right or left of the control wheel to change the item.

• Turn the control wheel to scroll the text up and down.

z To access all shooting tips

You can search through all shooting tips from the menu.

1MENU t [Camera] t [Shooting Tip List].
2Search for the desired shooting tips.

You can access a tip from the [Table of contents].

Mastering the basic operation

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37

Using the recording functions

Setting the function using Photo Creativity

You can operate the camera intuitively using Photo Creativity, since the screen
is designed more for intuitive operations than the normal screen. You can
shoot a subject with easy operations and obtain creative photos easily.

Select MENU t [Shoot

1

Mode] t (Intelligent
Auto).

Press the center of the control

2

wheel.
Or, touch (Photo

Creativity) on the screen.

The Photo Creativity screen appears.

Select the item you want to adjust by pressing the right/left

3

parts of the control wheel.
Or, touch the desired item on the screen.

(Bkground Defocus): Adjusts the blurring of the background.
(Brightness): Adjusts the brightness.
(Color): Adjusts the color.
(Vividness): Adjusts the vividness.
(Picture Effect): Selects the desired effect filter for shooting.

Select the desired setting by turning the control wheel.

4

Or, select the desired setting by touching the indicator or
the item on the screen.

• Repeat Steps 2 – 4 to combine the various functions.

Note

GB

• The Photo Creativity function is only available when an E-mount lens is mounted.

38

x

Defocusing the background easily (Background
Defocus Control)

Select (Bkground Defocus) (page 38).

1

Defocus the background by

2

turning the control wheel.
Or, slide the indicator on the

screen.

: To focus
: To defocus

• Select AUTO to restore the original
status.

• You can record a movie with a
value adjusted with the defocusing
effect.

Note

• The defocusing effect may not be noticeable, depending on the distance from the
subject or the lens used.

z For a better result of Background Defocus

• Move closer to the subject.

• Lengthen the distance between the subject and the background.

Using the recording functions

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39

x

Picture Effect

Select (Picture Effect) (page 38).

1

Select the desired effect by turning the control wheel.

2

Or, slide the screen up or down to select the desired effect.

(Off): Does not use the Picture Effect function.

(Toy Camera): Creates the look of a Toy Camera photo with shaded

corners and pronounced colors.

(Posterization: Color): Creates a high contrast, abstract look by

heavily emphasizing primary colors.

(Posterization: B/W): Creates a high contrast, abstract look in black

and white.

(Pop Color): Creates a vivid look by emphasizing color tones.
(Retro Photo): Creates the look of an aged photo with sepia color

tones and faded contrast.

(Partial Color): Creates an image which retains the

specified color, but converts others to black and white.

(Soft High-key): Creates an image with the indicated atmosphere:

bright, transparent, ethereal, tender, soft.

(High Contrast Mono.): Creates an image with high contrast in

black and white.

• You can use more picture effects. Select MENU t [Brightness/Color]
t [Picture Effect].

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Adjusting the brightness of still images (Exposure compensation)

You can adjust the exposure in 1/3 EV steps in a range of –3.0 EV to +3.0 EV.

Press (Exposure Comp.)

1

on the control wheel.

Turn the control wheel to select the desired value, and

2

press the center.
Or, select the desired value by sliding the indicator on the

screen.

When the image is too bright, set [Exposure Comp.] toward –.
When the image is too dark, set [Exposure Comp.] toward +.

Using the self-timer

Press (Drive Mode) on

1

the control wheel.

Turn the control wheel to select (Self-timer).

2

Or, slide the screen up or down to move (Self-timer) to
the center.

Using the recording functions

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41

Press Option, then turn the control wheel to select the

3

desired mode and press the center.
Or, touch Option t desired mode on the screen.

(Self-timer: 10 Sec): Sets the 10-second delay self-timer. Use this

when you want to include yourself in the picture.
When you press the shutter button, the self-timer lamp flashes and beeps
until the shutter operates.

(Self-timer: 2 Sec): Sets the 2-second delay self-timer. You can

prevent blur caused by camera shake that occurs when the shutter button
is pressed.

• To cancel the timer, press (Drive Mode) again.

z To shoot continuously using the self-timer

Select (Self-timer(Cont)) from (Drive Mode). The camera starts
continuous recording after ten seconds.

Shooting still images continuously

The camera records images continuously while you press and hold down the
shutter button.

Press (Drive Mode) on

1

the control wheel.

Turn the control wheel to select (Cont. Shooting), and

2

press the center.
Or, slide the screen up or down to move (Cont.
Shooting) to the center, and touch it.

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z To shoot continuously at a higher speed

Select (Spd Priority Cont.) from (Drive Mode) to shoot more
images continuously (max. 10 images per second). The focus and exposure of
the first shot are used for the following shots.

Changing the screen display (DISP)

Press DISP (Display

1

Contents) on the control
wheel.

Press DISP repeatedly to select the desired mode.

2

During shooting
Graphic Display: Shows basic shooting information. Graphically shows

the shutter speed and aperture value, except for when [Shoot Mode] is set
to [Sweep Panorama] or [3D Sweep Panorama].

Display All Info.: Shows recording information.
Big Font Size Disp.: Shows only major items in a larger size.
No Disp. Info.: Does not show recording information.
Histogram: Displays the luminance distribution graphically.
For viewfinder: Shows only shooting information on the screen (no

image). Select this when you shoot using a viewfinder (sold separately).

During playback
Display Info.: Shows recording information.
Histogram: Displays the luminance distribution graphically, in addition

to recording information.
No Disp. Info.: Does not show recording information.

Using the recording functions

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43

Shooting with various drive modes

Select MENU t [Shoot

1

Mode].

Turn the control wheel to select the desired mode, and

2

press the center.
Or, slide the screen up or down to move the desired mode

to the center, then touch it.

(Intelligent Auto): The camera evaluates the subject and makes the

proper settings.
SCN (Scene Selection): Shoots with preset settings according to the
subject or condition.

(Anti Motion Blur): Reduces the camera shake when shooting a

slightly dark indoor scene or a telephoto.

(Sweep Panorama): Shoots with panoramic size.

(3D Sweep Panorama): Shoots 3D panoramic images used for

playback on a 3D compatible TV.

M (Manual Exposure): Adjusts the aperture and shutter speed.
S (Shutter Priority): Adjusts the shutter speed to express the movement

of the subject.
A (Aperture Priority): Adjusts the range in focus, or defocuses the
background.
P (Program Auto): Automatic shooting that allows you to customize
settings, except for the exposure (aperture and shutter speed).

44

GB

x

Scene Selection

Select SCN (Scene Selection) (page 44).

1

Turn the control wheel to select the desired mode, and

2

press the center.
Or, slide the screen up or down to move the desired mode
to the center, then touch it.

(Portrait): Blurs away backgrounds and sharpens the subject.

Expresses skin tones softly.

(Landscape): Shoots the entire range of scenery in sharp focus with

vivid colors.

(Macro): Shoots close subjects such as flowers, insects, food, or small

items.

(Sports Action): Shoots a moving subject at a fast shutter speed so

that the subject looks as if it is standing still. The camera shoots images
continuously while the shutter button is pressed.

(Sunset): Shoots the red of the sunset beautifully.

(Night Portrait): Shoots portraits in night scenes. Attach and fire the

flash.

(Night Scene): Shoots night scenes without losing the dark

atmosphere.

(Hand-held Twilight): Shoots night scenes with less noise and blur

without using a tripod. A burst of shots are taken, and image processing is
applied to reduce subject blur, camera shake, and noise.

x

Anti Motion Blur

This is suitable for indoor shots without using the flash, to reduce the subject
blur.

Using the recording functions

Select (Anti Motion Blur) (page 44).

1

Shoot with the shutter button.

2

The camera combines six shots at high sensitivity into one still image, so
camera shake is reduced while preventing noise.

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45

x

Sweep Panorama/3D Sweep Panorama

While you pan the camera, the camera shoots several images and composes
them into one panoramic image.

Select (Sweep Panorama) or (3D Sweep

1

Panorama) (page 44).

Point the camera at the edge

2

of the subject, then press the
shutter button fully down.

This part will not be taken.

Pan the camera to the end,

3

following the guidance on the
LCD monitor.

Guidance bar

Note

• The camera continues shooting during [Sweep Panorama] recording, and the
shutter keeps clicking until the end of the shooting.

z Playing back scrolling panoramic images

You can scroll panoramic images from the beginning to the end by pressing the
center of the control wheel while panoramic images are being displayed. Press it
again to pause. You may play/pause by touching N/X on the screen.

• Panoramic images are played back with the
supplied software “PMB” (page 67).

• Panoramic images shot with other cameras may
not be displayed or scrolled correctly.

Shows the displayed area
of the whole panoramic
image.

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46

x

Shutter Priority

You can express the movement of a moving subject in various way by
adjusting the shutter speed, for example, at the instant of the movement with
high speed shutter, or as a trailing image with low speed shutter.

Select S (Shutter Priority) (page 44).

1

Turn the control wheel to select the desired value, and

2

press the center.
Or, touch / on the screen to select the desired value.

z Shutter speed

When a faster shutter speed is used, a moving
subject such as a running person, cars, and sea
spray appears as if they are stopped.

When a slower shutter speed is used, a trailing
image of the movement of the subject is captured
to make more natural and dynamic image.

x

Aperture Priority

You can adjust the range in focus, or defocuses the background.

Select A (Aperture Priority) (page 44).

1

Turn the control wheel to select the desired value, and

2

press the center.
Or, touch / on the screen to select the desired

value.

• You can record a movie with a value adjusted with Aperture Priority.

Using the recording functions

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47

Selecting the flash mode

Attach the flash and raise it (page 23).

1

Select MENU t [Camera] t

2

[Flash Mode].

Turn the control wheel to select the desired mode, and

3

press the center.
Or, slide the screen up or down to move the desired mode

to the center, then touch it.

(Flash Off): Does not fire even if the flash is raised.

(Autoflash): Fires if it is dark or against light.

(Fill-flash): Fires every time you trigger the shutter.

(Slow Sync.): Fires every time you trigger the shutter. Slow sync

shooting allows you to shoot a clear image of both the subject and the
background.

(Rear Sync.): Fires right before the exposure is completed every time

you trigger the shutter. A trailing image of the movement of the subject is
captured to make more natural image.

• The selectable items of the flash mode depends on the shooting mode
(page 64).

Note

• You cannot select [Fill-flash] with [Intelligent Auto].

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The flash range

The range of the supplied flash depends on the ISO sensitivity and aperture
value.

F2.8 F3.5 F5.6

ISO100 1 – 2.5 m

(3.3 – 8.2 feet)

ISO3200 5.6 – 14 m

(18.3 – 46 feet)

1 – 2 m
(3.3 – 6.6 feet)

4.5 – 11.2 m
(14.7 – 36.7 feet)

1 – 1.25 m
(3.3 – 4.1 feet)

2.8 – 7 m
(9.1 – 22.9 feet)

Selecting the image size/record setting

The image size determines the size of the image file that is recorded when you
take an image.
The larger the image size, the more detail will be reproduced when the image
is printed on large format paper. The smaller the image size, the more images
can be recorded.
In the case of movies, the larger the bit-rate, the higher the image quality.

Press MENU.

1

Or, touch MENU on the
screen.

Select [Image Size] t [Image Size].

2

For movie recording, select [Image Size] t [Record
Setting].

Using the recording functions

Select the desired mode.

3

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49

Still

[Aspect Ratio]: 3:2 Usage guidelines

L:16M 4912 × 3264 pixels For prints up to A3+ size

M:8.4M 3568 × 2368 pixels For prints up to A4 size

S:4.0M 2448 × 1624 pixels For prints L/2L size

[Aspect Ratio]: 16:9 Usage guidelines

L:14M 4912 × 2760 pixels For viewing on a high-definition TV

M:7.1M 3568 × 2000 pixels

S:3.4M 2448 × 1376 pixels

3D Panorama

(16:9) Shoots images using a size suitable for a high-

(Standard) Shoots images using standard size.

(Wide) Shoots images using wide size.

definition TV.
Horizontal: 1920 × 1080

Horizontal: 4912 × 1080

Horizontal: 7152 × 1080

Panorama

The image size varies depending on the shooting direction (page 57).

(Standard) Shoots images using standard size.

(Wide) Shoots images using wide size.

Vertical: 3872 × 2160
Horizontal: 8192 × 1856

Vertical: 5536 × 2160
Horizontal: 12416 × 1856

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Movie

[File Format]:
[AVCHD 60i/60p] or
[AVCHD 50i/50p]

60i 24M(FX)*
50i 24M(FX)**

60i 17M(FH)*
50i 17M(FH)**

60p 28M(PS)*
50p 28M(PS)**

24p 24M(FX)*
25p 24M(FX)**

24p 17M(FH)*
25p 17M(FH)**

[File Format]: MP4 Average

1440×1080 12M

VGA 3M 3 Mbps Records movies of VGA size.

* 1080 60i-compatible device
** 1080 50i-compatible device

Notes

• When you print still images recorded with 16:9 aspect ratio, and panoramic
images, both edges may be cut off.

• Movies recorded with the [60p 28M(PS)/50p 28M(PS)] setting in [Record Setting]
are converted by “PMB” in order to create a disc. This conversion can take a long
time. Also, you cannot create a disc with the original image quality.

• Movies recorded with the [60i 24M(FX)/50i 24M(FX)]/[24p 24M(FX)/25p
24M(FX)] setting in [Record Setting] are converted by “PMB” in order to create
an AVCHD disc. This conversion can take a long time. Also, you cannot create a
disc with the original image quality. If you want to keep the original image quality,
you must store your movies on a Blu-ray Disc.

• To watch 60p/50p or 24p/25p movies on a TV, you need a TV that is compatible
with 60p/50p and 24p/25p. If you use a non-compatible TV, the movies are
converted to 60i/50i and output to the TV.

Average
bit-rate

24 Mbps Records high image quality movies of

17 Mbps Records standard image quality movies

28 Mbps Records highest image quality movies of

24 Mbps Records high image quality moves of

17 Mbps Records standard image quality movies

bit-rate

12 Mbps Records movies of 1440 × 1080.

Recording

1920 × 1080 (60i/50i).

of 1920 × 1080 (60i/50i).

1920 × 1080 (60p/50p).

1920 × 1080 (24p/25p). This produces a
cinema-like atmosphere.

of 1920 × 1080 (24p/25p). This produces
a cinema-like atmosphere.

Recording

Using the recording functions

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51

Using the playback functions

Enlarging the playback image (Enlarge Image)

Press the (Playback)

1

button to enter the playback
mode.

(Playback) button

Display the image you want to

2

enlarge, then press

(Enlarge Image) (the center

of the control wheel).
Or, touch on the screen.

Turn the control wheel to adjust the scaling.

3

Or, touch or on the screen.

Press the top/bottom/right/left of the control wheel to select

4

the portion you want to enlarge.
Or, slide the image to select the portion you want to
enlarge.

• When you touch the image, the image is enlarged, centering on the spot
you touched.

• To cancel the operation, select .

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Displaying the image list

Press the (Playback)

1

button to enter the playback
mode.

Press (Image Index) on

2

the control wheel.

Six images are displayed at a time.

(Playback) button

Turn the control wheel to select an image.

3

• You can browse images quickly by sliding the screen up or down.

• To return to the single-image screen, select the desired image, and press

the center. Or, touch the desired image.

z Displaying a desired folder

To select a desired folder, select the bar
to the left of the image index screen, then
press the top/bottom parts of the control
wheel. You may select a folder by
touching the bar. You can change the
view mode by pressing the center of the
bar.

Using the playback functions

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53

Viewing images on a TV

To view images recorded on the camera on a TV, an HDMI cable (sold
separately) and an HD TV equipped with an HDMI connector are required.

Connect the camera to the TV

1

with an HDMI cable (sold

To the HDMI
connector

separately).

HDMI cable

To the HDMI
terminal

Note

• Use an HDMI mini connector on one end (for the camera), and a plug suitable for
connecting your TV on the other end.

z Viewing 3D images on a 3D TV

You can view 3D images recorded with the camera on a 3D TV connected to the
camera using an HDMI cable (sold separately).
Select MENU t [Playback] t [3D Viewing].

• For details, refer to the operating instructions supplied with the TV.

z Using your camera abroad

To view movies shot using this camera on a TV, the camera and TV must use
the same color television system.

54

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Checking the functions available

Menu list

When you press MENU, six menu items; [Shoot Mode], [Camera], [Image
Size], [Brightness/Color], [Playback], and [Setup], appear on the screen.
You can set various functions in each item. Items that cannot be set in the
context are displayed in gray.

x

Shoot Mode

Allows you to select a shooting mode, such as exposure mode, panoramic,
Scene Selection.

Intelligent Auto The camera evaluates the subject and makes the

Scene Selection Shoots with preset settings according to the subject or

Anti Motion Blur Reduces the camera shake when shooting a slightly

Sweep Panorama Shoots with panoramic size.

3D Sweep Panorama Shoots 3D panoramic images used for playback on a

Manual Exposure Adjusts the aperture and shutter speed.

Shutter Priority Adjusts the shutter speed to express the movement of

Aperture Priority Adjusts the range in focus, or defocuses the

Program Auto Automatic shooting that allows you to customize

proper settings.

condition.
(Portrait/Landscape/Macro/Sports Action/Sunset/
Night Portrait/Night Scene/Hand-held Twilight)

dark indoor scene or a telephoto.

3D compatible TV.

the subject.

background.

settings, except for the exposure (shutter speed and
aperture).

Checking the functions available

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55

x

Camera

Allows you to set shooting functions, such as continuous shooting, self-timer,
and flash.

Drive Mode Selects the drive mode, such as continuous shooting,

Flash Mode Selects the method used to fire the flash.

AF/MF Select Selects auto focusing or manual focusing.

Autofocus Area Selects the area to be focused on.

Autofocus Mode Selects the autofocus method.

Object Tracking Keeps the focus on a subject while tracking it.

Prec. Dig. Zoom Sets the digital zoom.

Face Detection Detects people’s faces automatically, and adjusts

Face Registration Registers or changes the person to be given priority in

Smile Shutter Each time the camera detects a smile, the camera

Soft Skin Effect Shoots the skin smoothly in the Face Detection

Shooting Tip List Allows you to access all shooting tips.

LCD Display (DISP) Switches the information to be displayed on the

GB

self-timer, or bracket shooting.
(Single Shooting/Cont. Shooting/Spd Priority Cont./
Self-timer/Self-timer(Cont)/ Bracket: Cont./Remote
Cdr.)

(Flash Off/Autoflash/Fill-flash/Slow Sync./Rear
Sync.)

(Autofocus/DMF/Manual Focus)

(Multi/Center/Flexible Spot)

(Single-shot AF/Continuous AF)

(On/Off)

focus and exposure to suit the faces.
(On (Regist. Faces)/On/Off)

the focus.
(New Registration/Order Exchanging/Delete/Delete
All)

releases the shutter automatically.
(On/Off)

function.
(On/Off)

shooting screen on the LCD monitor.
(Graphic Display/Display All Info./Big Font Size
Disp./No Disp. Info./Histogram/For viewfinder)

56

Finder Display(DISP) Switches the information to be displayed on the

DISP Button(Monitor) Sets the screen display modes to be displayed on the

x

Image Size

shooting screen on the viewfinder.
(Disp. Basic Info/Histogram)

LCD monitor by pressing the DISP button.

Allows you to set the image size and aspect ratio, etc.

Still

Image Size Selects the image size.

Aspect Ratio Selects the aspect ratio.

Quality Selects the compression format.

3D Panorama

Image Size Selects the image size of 3D panoramic images.

Panorama Direction Selects the direction to pan the camera when shooting

Panorama

Image Size Selects the image size.

Panorama Direction Selects the direction to pan the camera when shooting

Movie

File Format Selects AVCHD 60i/60p, AVCHD 50i/50p or MP4.

Record Setting Selects the image size, frame rate, and image quality

(3:2: L:16M/ M:8.4M/ S:4.0M)
(16:9: L:14M/ M:7.1M/ S:3.4M)

(3:2/16:9)

(RAW/RAW & JPEG/Fine/Standard)

(16:9/Standard/Wide)

3D panoramic images.
(Right/Left)

(Standard/Wide)

panoramic images.
(Right/Left/Up/Down)

(AVCHD 60i/60p/AVCHD 50i/50p/MP4)

of movies.
(AVCHD 60i/60p/AVCHD 50i/50p: 60i/50i 24M
(FX)/60i/50i 17M (FH)/60p/50p 28M (PS)/24p/25p
24M (FX)/24p/25p 17M (FH))
(MP4: 1440×1080 12M/VGA 3M)

Checking the functions available

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57

x

Brightness/Color

Allows you to make brightness settings such as metering mode, and color
settings such as white balance.

Exposure Comp. Compensates for the brightness of the entire image.

ISO Sets the ISO sensitivity.

White Balance Adjusts the color tones according to the ambient light

Metering Mode Selects the method used for measuring the brightness.

Flash Comp. Adjusts the amount of flash light.

DRO/Auto HDR Corrects the brightness or contrast automatically.

Picture Effect Shoots with the desired effects to express a unique

Creative Style Selects the image processing method.

x

Playback

(–3.0EV to +3.0EV)

(ISO AUTO/100 - 25600)

conditions.
(Auto WB/Daylight/Shade/Cloudy/Incandescent/
Fluor.: Warm White/Fluor.: Cool White/Fluor.: Day
White/Fluor.: Daylight/Flash/C.Temp./Filter/Custom/
Custom Setup)

(Multi/Center/Spot)

(–2.0EV to +2.0EV)

(Off/D-Range Opt./Auto HDR)

atmosphere.
(Off/Toy Camera/Pop Color/Posterization/Retro
Photo/Soft High-key/Partial Color/High Contrast
Mono./Soft Focus/HDR Painting/Rich-tone Mono./
Miniature)

(Standard/Vivid/Portrait/Landscape/Sunset/Black &
White)

Allows you to set playback functions.

Delete Deletes images.

Slide Show Plays back images automatically.

View Mode Allows you to determine how to group the playback

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(Multiple Img./All in Folder/All AVCHD view files)

(Repeat/Interval/Image Type)

images.
(Folder View(Still)/Folder View(MP4)/AVCHD
View)

58

Image Index Selects the number of images to be displayed on the

Rotate Rotates images.

Protect Protects images, or cancels the protection.

3D Viewing Connects to a 3D compatible TV and allows you to

Enlarge Image Enlarges the image.

Volume Settings Sets the sound volume of movies.

Specify Printing Selects the images to print, or makes printing settings.

Display Contents Switches the information to be displayed on the

x

Setup

index screen.
(6 Images/12 Images)

(Multiple Img./Cancel All Images/Cancel All
Movies(MP4)/Cancel All AVCHD view files)

view 3D images.

(DPOF Setup/Date Imprint)

playback screen.
(Display Info./Histogram/No Disp. Info.)

Allows you to make more detailed shooting settings, or change the camera
settings.

Shooting Settings

AF Illuminator Sets the AF illuminator to assist auto-focusing in dim

Red Eye Reduction Provides pre-flash before shooting when using the

FINDER/LCD Setting Sets how to switch between an Electronic Viewfinder

Live View Display Allows you to choose whether or not to show the

Auto Review Sets the display time of the image right after shooting.

places.
(Auto/Off)

flash, to prevent eyes from being shot in red.
(On/Off)

(sold separately) and the LCD monitor.
(Auto/Manual)

value of exposure compensation, etc. on the screen
display.
(Setting Effect ON/Setting Effect OFF)

(10 Sec/5 Sec/2 Sec/Off)

Checking the functions available

GB

59

Grid Line Turns on the grid line that helps you to adjust the

Peaking Level Enhances the outline of in-focus ranges with a specific

Peaking Color Sets the color used for the peaking function.

MF Assist Displays an enlarged image when focusing manually.

MF Assist Time Sets the length of time the image will be shown in an

Color Space Changes the range of color reproduction.

SteadyShot Sets camera shake compensation.

Release w/o Lens Sets whether or not to release the shutter when there is

Eye-Start AF Sets whether or not to use autofocus when you look

Front Curtain Shutter Sets whether or not to use the electronic front curtain

Long Exposure NR Sets the noise reduction processing for long exposure

High ISO NR Sets the noise reduction processing for high ISO

Lens Comp.: Shading Compensates for the shaded corners of the screen.

Lens Comp.: Chro.
Aber.

Lens Comp.: Distortion Compensates for distortion on the screen.

GB

60

composition of images.
(Rule of 3rds Grid/Square Grid/Diag. + Square Grid/
Off)

color.
(High/Mid/Low/Off)

(White/Red/Yellow)

(On/Off)

enlarged form.
(No Limit/5 Sec/2 Sec)

(sRGB/AdobeRGB)

(On/Off)

no lens.
(Enable/Disable)

through an Electronic Viewfinder (sold separately).
(On/Off)

shutter function.
(On/Off)

shootings.
(On/Off)

sensitivity shootings.
(Normal/Low)

(Auto/Off)

Reduces the color deviation at the corners of the
screen.
(Auto/Off)

(Auto/Off)

Movie Audio Rec Sets the sound for movie recording.

(On/Off)

Wind Noise Reduct. Reduces wind noise during movie recording.

(On/Off)

AF Micro Adj. Finely adjusts the autofocused position, when using

the LA-EA2 Mount Adaptor (sold separately).
(AF Adjustment Setting/amount/Clear)

Main Settings

Menu start Selects a first-displayed menu from the top menu or

the last menu screen.
(Top/Previous)

Custom Key Settings Assigns functions to the various keys.

(Right Key Setting/Soft key B Setting/Soft key C
Setting/Custom)

Touch Operation Sets whether or not to operate the camera using the

touch panel.
(On/Off)

Beep Selects the sound produced when you operate the

camera.
(On/Off)

Language Selects the language used on the screen.

Date/Time Setup Sets the date and time.

Area Setting Selects the area where you are using the camera.

Help Guide Display Turns the Help Guide on or off.

(On/Off)

Power Save Sets the time to turn the camera to the power save

mode.
(30 Min/5 Min/1 Min/20 Sec/10 Sec)

LCD Brightness Sets the brightness of the LCD monitor.

(Auto/Manual/Sunny Weather)

Viewfinder Bright. Sets the brightness of an Electronic Viewfinder (sold

separately).
(Auto/Manual)

Display Color Selects the color of the LCD monitor.

(Black/White/Blue/Pink)

Wide Image Selects a method to display wide images.

(Full Screen/Normal)

Playback Display Selects the method used to play back portrait images.

(Auto Rotate/Manual Rotate)

Checking the functions available

GB

61

HDMI Resolution Set resolution when connected to HDMI TV.

CTRL FOR HDMI Sets whether or not to operate the camera with a

USB Connection Selects the method used for a USB connection.

Cleaning Mode Allows you to clean the image sensor.

Version Displays the version of the camera and the lens.

Demo Mode Sets whether or not to display the demonstration with

Reset Default Resets the camera to the factory-settings.

Memory Card Tool

Format Formats the memory card.

File Number Selects the method used for assigning file numbers to

Folder Name Selects the folder name format.

Select Shoot. Folder Selects the recording folder.

New Folder Creates a new folder.

Recover Image DB Repairs the image database file when inconsistencies

Display Card Space Displays the remaining recording time of movies and

Eye-Fi Setup*

Upload Settings Sets the upload function of the camera when an

* Appears when an Eye-Fi card (sold separately) is inserted in the camera. Do not

use an Eye-Fi card inserted in the camera on an airplane. If there is an Eye-Fi
card inserted in the camera, set [Upload Settings] to [Off].
Eye-Fi cards can be used only in the countries/regions where they were
purchased. Use Eye-Fi cards in accordance with the law of the countries/regions
where you purchased the card.

GB

(Auto/1080p/1080i)

“BRAVIA” Sync-compliant TV’s Remote Control.
(On/Off)

(Auto/Mass Storage/MTP)

movies.
(On/Off)

images.
(Series/Reset)

(Standard Form/Date Form)

are found.

the recordable number of still images on the memory
card.

Eye-Fi card is used.
(On/Off)

62

Functions available for each shooting mode

The functions you can use depend on the selected shooting mode.
In the table below, indicates the function available. – indicates the function
not available.
The functions you cannot use are displayed in gray on the screen.

Shoot Mode Exposure

(Intelligent

Auto)

(Sweep

Panorama)

(3D Sweep

Panorama)

(Anti Motion

Blur)

SCN

(Scene

Selection)

P

(Program Auto)

A

(Aperture

Priority)

S

(Shutter Priority)

M

(Manual

Exposure)

Comp.

Self-timer Cont.

Shooting

Face
Detection

Picture Effect

––

––––

––––

–– –

–––

––

–––

–––

–––

–––

––– –

–––

–

Checking the functions available

Note

• The functions available may be limited also by conditions other than the shooting

mode.

GB

63

Flash modes available

The flash modes you can select depend on the shooting mode and functions
selected.
In the table below, indicates the function available. – indicates the function
not available.
The flash modes you cannot select are displayed in gray on the screen.

Shoot Mode Flash Off Autoflash Fill-flash Slow Sync. Rear Sync.

(Intelligent

Auto)

(Sweep

Panorama)

(3D Sweep

Panorama)

(Anti Motion

Blur)

SCN

(Scene

Selection)

P

(Program Auto)

A

(Aperture

Priority)

S

(Shutter Priority)

M

(Manual

Exposure)

––––

––––

––––

–––

–––

–––

––––

––––

––– –

––

––

––

––

–––

––

––

Notes

• The flash modes may be limited also by conditions other than the shooting mode.

• Even if you select a workable flash mode, the flash does not fire unless it is raised.

• [Autoflash] can be selected when [Shoot Mode] is set to [Intelligent Auto], or
certain [Scene Selection] modes only.

GB

64

Importing images to the computer

Installing the software

To utilize images recorded with the camera, the following software is
provided:

• “Sony Image Data Suite”

• “PMB” (Picture Motion Browser) (Windows only)

Notes

• Log on as Administrator.

• If “PMB” has already been installed on the computer, and the version number of

the previously installed “PMB” is lower than that of the “PMB” on the CD-ROM
(supplied), install “PMB” also from the CD-ROM (supplied).

x

Windows

The following computer environment is recommended when using the
supplied software and importing images via a USB connection.

OS (pre-installed) Microsoft Windows XP* SP3/Windows Vista** SP2/

“PMB” CPU: Intel Pentium III 800 MHz or faster

“Image Data
Converter”

* 64-bit editions and Starter (Edition) are not supported. Windows Image Mastering

API (IMAPI) Ver. 2.0 or later is required to use the function for creating discs.

** Starter (Edition) is not supported.

Windows 7 SP1

(For playing/editing the HD movies: Intel Core Duo

1.66 GHz or faster, Intel Core 2 Duo 1.66 GHz or faster,
Intel Core 2 Duo 2.26 GHz or faster (HD FX/HD FH), Intel
Core 2 Duo 2.40 GHz or faster (HD PS))
Memory: 512 MB or more (For playing/editing the HD
movies: 1 GB or more)
Hard Disk: Disk space required for installation—
approximately 500 MB

Display: Screen resolution—1024 × 768 dots or more

CPU/Memory: Pentium 4 or faster/1 GB or more
Display: 1024 × 768 dots or more

Importing images to the computer

GB

65

Turn on your computer, and

1

insert the CD-ROM (supplied)
into the CD-ROM drive.

The installation menu screen appears.

Click [Install].

2

• Make sure that both “Sony Image Data Suite” and “PMB” are checked
and follow the instructions on the screen.

• Connect the camera to the computer during the procedure following the
instructions on the screen.

• When the restarting confirmation message appears, restart the computer
following the instructions on the screen.

• DirectX may be installed depending on the system environment of your
computer.

Remove the CD-ROM after the installation is complete.

3

The software is installed and shortcut icons appear on the desktop.

x

Macintosh

The following computer environment is recommended when using the
supplied software and importing images via a USB connection.

OS (pre-installed) USB Connection: Mac OS X (v10.3 to v10.6)

“Image Data
Converter”

Turn on your Macintosh computer, and insert the CD-ROM

1

(supplied) into the CD-ROM drive.

Double-click the CD-ROM icon.

2

GB

“Image Data Converter”: Mac OS X v10.5/
Mac OS X v10.6 (Snow Leopard)

CPU: Intel processors, such as Intel Core Solo/Core Duo/
Core 2 Duo

Memory: 1 GB or more is recommended.
Display: 1024 × 768 dots or more

66

Copy the [IDS_INST.pkg] file in the [MAC] folder to the

3

hard disk icon.

Double-click the [IDS_INST.pkg] file in the copy-to folder.

4

• Follow the instructions on the screen to complete the installation.

What you can do with the supplied software

x

“PMB”

With “PMB” you can do the following, etc.:

• Import images shot with the camera and display them on the computer.

• Organize images on the computer on a calendar by shooting date to view
them.

• Print or save still images with the date.

For details on “PMB,” refer to “PMB Help”.
To start Help, click (PMB Help) displayed on the desktop after
installation. Or, from the start menu, click [Start] t [All Programs] t
[PMB] t [PMB Help].

The support information for the “PMB” (English only):
http://www.sony.co.jp/pmb-se/

Note

• “PMB” is not compatible with Macintosh computers.

x

“Sony Image Data Suite”

With “Sony Image Data Suite,” you can edit images recorded in RAW format
with various corrections, such as tone curve, and sharpness.
Besides, you can display and compare RAW/JPEG images recorded with this
camera.
For details on “Image Data Converter,” refer to Help.

The support information for the “Sony Image Data Suite” (English only):
http://www.sony.co.jp/ids-se/

Importing images to the computer

GB

67

Creating a disc of movies

You can create a disc from AVCHD View movies that have been recorded
with this camera.
Depending on the disc type, playable devices may vary.
Select the method that suits your disc player.
Here, two ways of creating a disc of movies are described; creating a disc with
a computer using “PMB” or creating a disc with devices other than a computer
such as a DVD writer.

Player Disc type Feature

Blu-ray Disc playback
devices
(Blu-ray Disc player,
PlayStation

AVCHD format playback
devices
(Sony Blu-ray Disc player,
PlayStation

Ordinary DVD playback
devices
(DVD player, computer
that can play DVDs, etc.)

x

®

3, etc.)

®

3, etc.)

Creating a disc using a computer

You can import AVCHD View movies to a computer using “PMB” and create
an AVCHD format disc or a standard definition image quality (STD) disc. For
details on the method for creating a disc using “PMB,” see “PMB Help.”

Notes

• To create a Blu-ray Disc, be sure to install [BD Add-on Software] from the
“PMB” installation screen.

• The PlayStation

• Movies recorded with the [60p 28M(PS)/50p 28M(PS)] setting in [Record Setting]
are converted by “PMB” in order to create a disc. This conversion can take a long

GB

time. Also, you cannot create a disc with the original image quality.

68

®

3 may not be available in some countries/regions.

Using a Blu-ray Disc enables you to
record high-definition image quality (HD)
movies of a longer duration than DVD
discs.

High-definition image quality (HD)
movies can be recorded on DVD media,
such as DVD-R discs, and a high­definition image quality (HD) disc is
created.
You cannot play a high-definition image
quality (HD) disc on ordinary DVD
players.

Standard definition image quality (STD)
movies converted from high-definition
image quality (HD) movies can be
recorded on DVD media, such as DVD-R
discs, and a standard definition image
quality (STD) disc is created.

• Movies recorded with the [60i 24M(FX)/50i 24M(FX)]/[24p 24M(FX)/25p

24M(FX)] setting in [Record Setting] are converted by “PMB” in order to create
an AVCHD disc. This conversion can take a long time. Also, you cannot create a
disc with the original image quality. If you want to keep the original image quality,
you must store your movies on a Blu-ray Disc.

• “AVCHD View movies” are the movies that were recorded in the [AVCHD 60i/

60p] or [AVCHD 50i/50p] mode of [File Format].

x

Creating a disc with a device other than a computer

You can create a disc with a Blu-ray Disc recorder and DVD writer.
The disc type you can create depends on the device used.

Device Disc type

Blu-ray Disc recorder: To
create a Blu-ray Disc or DVD
with standard image quality
(STD)

DVD writer other than
DVDirect Express: To create an
AVCHD disc or DVD with
standard image quality (STD)

HDD recorder, etc.: To create a
DVD with standard image
quality (STD)

Notes

• For details on how to create a disc, refer to the operating instructions of the device

you use.

• If you create a disc using Sony DVDirect (DVD Writer), use the memory card slot

of the DVD Writer or connect the DVD Writer via USB connection to transfer the
data.

• If you use Sony DVDirect (DVD Writer), check that the firmware is updated to the

newest version.
For details, see the following URL:
http://sony.storagesupport.com/

Importing images to the computer

GB

69

Others

Checking the number of recordable images

Once you insert a memory card into the
camera and set the power switch to ON,
the number of images that can be
recorded (should you continue to shoot
using the current settings) is displayed
on the LCD monitor.

Notes

• When “0” (the number of recordable images) flashes in yellow, the memory card
is full. Replace the memory card with another one, or delete images in the current
memory card (page 32).

• When “NO CARD” (the number of recordable images) flashes in yellow, it means
no memory card has been inserted. Insert a memory card.

x

Number of still images and time of movies that can be
recorded on a memory card

Still images

The table shows the approximate number of still images that can be recorded
on a memory card formatted with this camera. The values are defined using
Sony standard memory cards for testing. The values may vary depending on
the shooting conditions.

Image size: L 16M
Aspect ratio: 3:2*

Capacity

Quality

Standard 410 820 1650 3300 6700

Fine 290 590 1150 2400 4800

RAW & JPEG 80 155 320 640 1250

RAW 105 215 440 880 1750

* When [Aspect Ratio] is set to [16:9], you can record more images than the

numbers shown in the table above (except for [RAW]).

GB

2GB 4GB 8GB 16GB 32GB

(Units: images)

70

Movies

The table below shows the approximate recording times available. These are
the total times for all movie files. Continuous recording is possible for
approximately 29 minutes per recording. The maximum size of an MP4 movie
file is about 2 GB.

Capacity

Record Setting

60i 24M(FX)
50i 24M(FX)

60i 17M(FH)
50i 17M(FH)

60p 28M(PS)
50p 28M(PS)

24p 24M(FX)
25p 24M(FX)

24p 17M(FH)
25p 17M(FH)

1440×1080 12M 20 m 40 m 1 h 20 m 2 h 45 m 5 h 30 m

VGA 3M 1 h 10 m 2 h 25 m 4 h 55 m 10 h 20 h

Note

• The recording time of movies varies because the camera is equipped with VBR

(Variable Bit Rate) which automatically adjusts image quality depending on the
shooting scene.
When you record a fast-moving subject, the image is clearer but the recording time
is shorter because a lot of memory needed to record.
The recording time also vary depending on the shooting condition or your subject
or the setting of image quality/size.

2GB 4GB 8GB 16GB 32GB

10 m 20 m 40 m 1 h 30 m 3 h

10 m 30 m 1 h 2 h 4 h 5 m

9 m 15 m 35 m 1 h 15 m 2 h 30 m

10 m 20 m 40 m 1 h 30 m 3 h

10 m 30 m 1 h 2 h 4 h 5 m

(h (hour), m (minute))

Others

GB

71

x

Number of still images that can be recorded using a
battery pack

The approximate number of images that can be recorded is 430 images when
you use the camera with the battery pack (supplied) at full capacity.
Note that the actual numbers may be less depending on the conditions of use.

• The number is calculated with a battery pack at full capacity and in the following
situation:
– At an ambient temperature of 25°C (77°F).
– [Quality] is set to [Fine].
– [Autofocus Mode] is set to [Single-shot AF].
– Shooting once every 30 seconds.
– The flash (HVL-F7S) strobes once every two times.
– The power turns on and off once every ten times.
– Using the battery pack that is charged for an hour after the CHARGE lamp goes

out.

– Using Sony “Memory Stick PRO Duo” media (sold separately).

• The measurement method is based on the CIPA standard.

(CIPA: Camera & Imaging Products Association)

72

GB

List of icons on the LCD monitor

Icons are displayed on the screen to indicate the camera status.
You can change the screen display using DISP (Display Contents) on the
control wheel.

Shooting standby

A

Display Indication

P A S M

Shoot Mode

Graphic display

Movie recording

Playback

16M 14M 8.4M

7.1M 4M 3.4M

RAW RAW+J
FINE STD

100 Number of

Scene Selection

Scene Recognition

Aspect ratio of
still images

Image size of still
images

Image quality of
still images

recordable still
images

Others

GB

73

Display Indication

60i/50i

60i/50i

60p/50p

24p/25p

24p/25p

Recording mode
of movies

Memory card/
Upload

Display Indication

Electronic
Viewfinder (sold
separately)
overheating
warning

Overheating
warning

Database file full/
Database file error

View mode

123Min Recordable time

100%

GB

of movies

Remaining battery

Flash charge in
progress

AF illuminator

Live view

Does not record
sound during
movie recording

Touch operation
off

SteadyShot/
SteadyShot
warning

Electronic
Viewfinder (sold
separately)
connection error

74

101-0012 Playback folder –

File number

Protect

Print order

B

Display Indication

Soft keys

C

Display Indication

Flash Mode/Red
Eye Reduction

Drive Mode

Display Indication

±0.0

AWB

7500K

A7 G7

Focus mode

Flash
compensation

Metering Mode

Focus area mode

Object Tracking

Face Detection

Soft Skin Effect

White Balance

DRO/Auto HDR

Creative Style

Picture Effect

Display Indication

Smile detection
sensitivity
indicator

D

Display Indication

z

1/125 Shutter speed

F3.5 Aperture value

±0.0

±0.0

ISO400 ISO sensitivity

REC 0:12 Recording time of

2011-1-1
9:30AM

12/12 Image number/

Focus status

Metered manual

Exposure
compensation

AE lock

Shutter speed
indicator

Aperture indicator

the movie (m:s)

Recorded date/time
of the image

Number of images
in the view mode

Appears when HDR
did not work on the
image.

Others

GB

75

Display Indication

Appears when
Picture Effect did
not work on the
image.

Histogram

76

GB

Learning more about the camera
(α Handbook)

“α Handbook,” which explains how to use the camera in detail, is included on
the CD-ROM (supplied). Refer to it for in-depth instructions on the many
functions of the camera.

x

For Windows users

Turn on your computer, and insert the CD-ROM (supplied)

1

into the CD-ROM drive.

Click [Handbook].

2

Click [Install].

3

Start “α Handbook” from the shortcut on the desktop.

4

x

For Macintosh users

Turn on your computer, and insert the CD-ROM (supplied)

1

into the CD-ROM drive.

Select the [Handbook] folder and copy “Handbook.pdf”

2

stored in the [GB] folder to your computer.

After copying is complete, double-click “Handbook.pdf.”

3

Others

GB

77

Troubleshooting

If you experience trouble with the camera, try the following solutions.

Check the items on pages 78 to 81. Also refer to

1

“α Handbook” (PDF).

Remove the battery pack, wait for about one minute, re-

2

insert the battery pack, then turn on the power.

Reset the settings (page 62).

3

Consult your Sony dealer or local authorized Sony service

4

facility.

Battery pack and power

The battery pack cannot be installed.

• When you insert the battery pack, use the tip of the battery pack to push the
lock lever (page 17).

• You can use an NP-FW50 battery pack only. Make sure that the battery is
NP-FW50.

The remaining battery indicator is incorrect, or sufficient
remaining battery indicator is displayed but the power runs out
too quickly.

• This phenomenon occurs when you use the camera in an extremely hot or
cold location.

• The battery pack is discharged. Install a charged battery pack (page 15).

• The battery pack is dead. Replace it with a new one.

Cannot turn on the camera.

• Install the battery pack correctly (page 17).

• The battery pack is discharged. Install a charged battery pack (page 15).

• The battery pack is dead. Replace it with a new one.

The power turns off suddenly.

• When the camera or battery pack is too warm, the camera displays a warning

GB

78

message and turns off automatically to protect the camera.

• If you do not operate the camera for given period of time, the camera turns to
power saving mode. To cancel the power save, operate the camera, such as
pressing the shutter button halfway down.

The CHARGE lamp flashes when charging the battery pack.

• You can use an NP-FW50 battery pack only. Make sure that the battery is
NP-FW50.

• If you charge a battery pack that has not been used for a long time, the
CHARGE lamp may flash.

• The CHARGE lamp flashes in two ways, fast (about 0.15-second intervals)
and slow (about 1.5-second intervals). If it is flashing fast, remove the battery
pack and reattach the same battery pack securely. If the CHARGE lamp
flashes fast again, it suggests that there is something wrong with the battery
pack. Slow flashing indicates that charging is suspended because the ambient
temperature is outside the suitable range for charging the battery pack.
Charging will resume and the CHARGE lamp will be lit when the ambient
temperature returns to within the suitable temperature. Charge the battery
pack under the suitable temperatures between 10 °C and 30 °C (50 °F and
86 °F).

Shooting images

Nothing is displayed on the LCD monitor when the power is
turned on.

• If you do not operate the camera for given period of time, the camera turns to
power saving mode. To cancel the power save, operate the camera, such as
pressing the shutter button halfway down.

The shutter does not release.

• You are using a memory card with a write-protect switch, and the switch is
set to the LOCK position. Set the switch to the recording position.

• Check the free capacity of the memory card.

• You cannot record images while charging the flash.

• The lens is not attached properly. Attach the lens properly (page 19).

Others

Recording takes a long time.

• The noise reduction function is turned on. This is not a malfunction.

• You are shooting in the RAW mode. Since the RAW data file is large, the
RAW mode shooting may take time.

• The Auto HDR is processing an image.

The image is out of focus.

• The subject is too close. Check the minimum focal distance of the lens.

GB

79

• You are shooting in manual focus mode. Set [AF/MF Select] to [Autofocus].

• Ambient light is insufficient.

• The subject may require special focusing. Use the [Flexible Spot] or manual
focus function.

The flash does not work.

• Raise the flash (page 23).

• The flash is not attached correctly. Reattach the flash (page 23).

• You cannot use a flash with the following shooting mode:

– [Bracket: Cont.]
– [Sweep Panorama]
– [3D Sweep Panorama]
– [Night Scene] and [Hand-held Twilight] in [Scene Selection]
– [Anti Motion Blur]
– Movie recording

Fuzzy white circular spots appear on images shot using the flash.

• Particles (dust, pollen, etc.) in the air reflected the flash light and appeared on
the image. This is not a malfunction.

The flash takes too long to recharge.

• The flash has been fired in succession in a short period. When the flash has
been fired in succession, the recharging process may take longer than usual
to avoid overheating of the flash.

The image taken with the flash is too dark.

• If the subject is beyond the flash range (the distance that the flash can reach),
the pictures will be dark because the flash light does not reach the subject. If
the ISO is changed, the flash range also changes with it (page 49).

The date and time are recorded incorrectly.

• Set the correct date and time (page 25).

• The area selected with [Area Setting] is different from the actual area. Set the
actual area by selecting MENU t [Setup] t [Area Setting].

The aperture value and/or shutter speed flashes when you press
the shutter button halfway down.

• Since the subject is too bright or too dark, it is beyond the available range of
the camera. Adjust the setting again.

GB

80

The image is whitish (Flare).

Blurring of light appears on the image (Ghosting).

• The picture was taken under a strong light source, and excessive light has
entered the lens. When using the zoom lens, attach a lens hood.

The corners of the picture are too dark.

• If any filter or hood is used, take it off and try shooting again. Depending on
the thickness of the filter and improper attachment of the hood, the filter or
the hood may partially appear on the image. The optical properties of some
lenses may cause the periphery of the image to appear too dark (insufficient
light). You may compensate for this phenomenon with [Lens Comp.:
Shading].

The eyes of the subject come out red.

• Activate the Red Eye Reduction function.

• Get close to the subject, and shoot the subject within the flash range
(page 49) using the flash.

Dots appear and remain on the LCD monitor.

• This is not a malfunction. These dots are not recorded (page 82).

The image is blurred.

• The picture was taken in a dark location without the flash, resulting in
camera shake. The use of a tripod or the flash is recommended (page 23).
[Hand-held Twilight] in [Scene Selection] (page 45) and [Anti Motion Blur]
(page 45) are also effective in reducing blur.

The exposure value is flashing on the LCD monitor.

• The subject is too bright or too dark for the metering range of the camera.

Viewing images

Images cannot be played back.

• The folder/file name has been changed on your computer.

• When an image file has been processed by a computer or when the image file
was recorded using a model other than that of your camera, playback on your
camera is not guaranteed.

• The camera is in USB mode. Delete the USB connection.

Others

GB

81

Precautions

On the functions available
with the camera

• Your camera is 1080
60i-compatible or 1080
50i-compatible.
To check whether the camera is
1080 60i-compatible or 1080
50i-compatible, check for the
following marks on the bottom of
the camera.
1080 60i-compatible camera: 60i
1080 50i-compatible camera: 50i

• This camera can record 1080 60p/
50p mode movies. Unlike
conventional movies that are
recorded with an interlace
scanning system, 1080 60p/50p
movies are recorded with a
progressive scanning system.
Using a progressive scanning
system method increases the
resolution and allows you to record
smoother and more realistic
movies.

• You may feel uncomfortable
symptoms such as eyestrain,
nausea, or a tired feeling while
watching 3D images recorded with
the camera on 3D compatible
monitors. When you watch 3D
images, we recommend that you
take a break at regular time
intervals. Since the need for or
frequency of break times varies
between individuals, please set
your own standards. If you feel
sick, stop watching 3D images, and
consult a doctor as needed. Also,
refer to the operating instructions

GB

of the connected device or the

82

software used with the camera. A
child's vision is always vulnerable
(especially for children under six
years of age). Before allowing
them to watch 3D images, please
consult with an expert, such as a
pediatric or ophthalmic doctor.
Make sure your children follow the
precautions above.

On the LCD monitor and
lens

• The LCD monitor is manufactured
using extremely high-precision
technology so over 99.99 % of the
pixels are operational for effective
use. However, there may be some
tiny black points and/or bright
points (white, red, blue or green in
color) that constantly appear on the
LCD monitor. These points are
normal in the manufacturing
process and do not affect the
images in any way.

Black, white,
red, blue and
green points

• Do not hold the camera by taking
hold of the LCD monitor.

• A magnet is attached to the back of
the LCD monitor. Do not put
objects that are affected by
magnetic fields, such as a floppy
disk or a credit card, between the
LCD monitor and the camera
body.

Magnet

• Images may trail across on the
LCD monitor in a cold location.
This is not a malfunction. When
turning on the camera in a cold
location, the LCD monitor may
become temporarily dark.

• Do not press against the LCD
monitor. The monitor may be
discolored and that may cause a
malfunction.

• Do not expose the camera to direct
sunlight. If sunlight is focused on a
nearby object, it may cause a fire.
When you must place the camera
under direct sunlight, attach the
front lens cap.

On using the lenses and
accessories

It is recommended that you use Sony
lenses/accessories designed to suit
the characteristics of this camera.
Using the products of other
manufacturers may cause the camera
not to operate to its capability, or
result in accidents and malfunctions
of the camera.

On the Smart Accessory
Terminal 2

Set the power switch of the camera
to OFF before you attach or remove
an accessory, such as the flash, to the
Smart Accessory Terminal 2. When
attaching an accessory, plug the
accessory into the Smart Accessory

Terminal 2 to the end and fasten the
screw. Make sure that the accessory
is attached to the camera securely.

Do not use/store the
camera in the following
places

• In an extremely hot, dry or humid
place
In places such as in a car parked in
the sun, the camera body may
become deformed and this may
cause a malfunction.

• Storing under direct sunlight or
near a heater
The camera body may become
discolored or deformed, and this
may cause a malfunction.

• In a location subject to rocking
vibration

• Near strong magnetic place

• In sandy or dusty places
Be careful not to let sand or dust
get into the camera. This may
cause the camera to malfunction,
and in some cases this malfunction
cannot be repaired.

On the grip

The grip is applied with a special
coating. It may be discolored if it is
rubbed with dark colored cloth,
leather, etc.

On storing

Be sure to attach the front lens cap
when not using the camera.

On the temperature of the
camera

Your camera and battery may get hot
due to continuous use, but it is not a
malfunction.

Others

GB

83

On operating temperatures

Your camera is designed for use
under the temperatures between 0°C
and 40°C (32°F and 104°F).
Shooting in extremely cold or hot
places that exceed this range is not
recommended.

On moisture condensation

If the camera is brought directly
from a cold to a warm location,
moisture may condense inside or
outside the camera. This moisture
condensation may cause a
malfunction of the camera.

How to prevent moisture
condensation

When bringing the camera from a
cold place to a warm place, seal the
camera in a plastic bag and allow it
to adapt to conditions at the new
location over about an hour.

If moisture condensation occurs

Turn off the camera and wait about
an hour for the moisture to
evaporate. Note that if you attempt
to shoot with moisture remaining
inside the lens, you will be unable to
record clear images.

On the internal
rechargeable battery

This camera has an internal
rechargeable battery for maintaining
the date and time and other settings
regardless of whether the power is
on or off, or the battery is installed
or not. This rechargeable battery is
continually charged as long as you
are using the camera. However, if
you use the camera for only short

GB

periods, it discharges gradually, and

84

if you do not use the camera at all for
about three months it becomes
completely discharged. In this case,
be sure to charge this rechargeable
battery before using the camera.
However, even if this rechargeable
battery is not charged, you can still
use the camera as long as you do not
record the date and time. If the
camera resets the settings to the
defaults each time you charge the
battery, the internal rechargeable
battery may be dead. Consult your
Sony dealer or local authorized Sony
service facility.

Charging method of the internal
rechargeable battery

Insert a charged battery pack into the
camera, or connect the camera to a
wall outlet (wall socket) using the
AC Adaptor (sold separately), and
leave the camera for 24 hours or
more with the power off.

On memory cards

Do not attach a label, etc. on a
memory card or a card adaptor. This
may cause a malfunction.

On recording/playback

• When you use a memory card with
this camera for the first time, it is
recommended to format the card
using the camera for stable
performance of the memory card
before shooting. Note that
formatting permanently erases all
data on the memory card, and is
unrecoverable. Save precious data
on a computer, etc.

• If you repeatedly record/delete
images, fragmentation of data may
occur on the memory card. Movies

may not be able to be saved or
recorded. In such a case, save your
images to a computer or other
storage location, then format the
memory card.

• The recorded contents cannot be
compensated for even if recording
or playback is not possible due to a
malfunction of the camera or
memory card, etc.

• To avoid the potential risk of data
loss, always copy (back up) data to
other medium.

• Before you record one-time events,
make a trial recording to make sure
that the camera is working
correctly.

• This camera is neither dust-proof,
nor splash-proof, nor water-proof.

• Do not aim the camera at the sun
or other bright light. It may cause
the malfunction of the camera.

• Do not look at the sun or a strong
light through a removed lens. This
may cause irrecoverable damage to
your eyes. Or it may cause a
malfunction of the lens.

• Do not use the camera near a
location that generates strong radio
waves or emits radiation. The
camera may not be able to record
or play back properly.

• Using the camera in sandy or dusty
locations may cause malfunctions.

• If moisture condensation occurs,
remove it before using the camera
(page 84).

• Do not shake or strike the camera.
In addition to malfunctions and an
inability to record images, this may
render the memory card unusable,

or cause image data breakdown,
damage or loss.

• Clean the flash surface with a soft
cloth. The heat of flash emission
may cause dirt to adhere on the
flash surface, resulting in smoking
or scorching.

• Keep the camera, supplied
accessories, etc., out of the reach
of children. A memory card, etc.,
may be swallowed. If such
problem occurs, consult a doctor
immediately.

On RAW images

To view RAW images recorded with
the camera, “Image Data Converter”
on the CD-ROM (supplied) is
required. If you do not intend to
modify the images you record, we
recommend that you shoot images
using the JPEG format.

Notes when playing
movies on other devices

• This camera uses MPEG-4 AVC/
H.264 High Profile for AVCHD
format recording. Movies recorded
in AVCHD format with this
camera cannot be played by the
following devices.
– Other devices compatible with

AVCHD format that does not
support High Profile

– Devices incompatible with the

AVCHD format

• This camera also uses MPEG-4
AVC/H.264 Main Profile for MP4
format recording. For this reason,
movies recorded in MP4 format
with this camera cannot be played
on devices other than those that
support MPEG-4 AVC/H.264.

Others

GB

85

• Discs recorded with HD (high
definition) image quality can be
played back only on AVCHD
format-compatible devices. DVD­based players or recorders cannot
play back HD image quality discs,
as they are incompatible with the
AVCHD format. Also, DVD-based
players or recorders may fail to
eject HD image quality discs.

• 1080 60p/50p movies can be
played back on compatible devices
only.

Warning on copyright

Television programs, films,
videotapes, and other materials may
be copyrighted. Unauthorized
recording of such materials may be
contrary to the provisions of the
copyright laws.

The pictures used in this
manual

The photographs used as examples
of pictures in this manual are
reproduced images, and are not
actual images shot using this
camera.

On the data specifications
described in this manual

The data on performance and
specifications is defined under the
following conditions, except as
described in this manual: at an
ordinary ambient temperature of
25ºC (77°F), and using a battery
pack that is charged for an hour after
the CHARGE lamp goes out.

86

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Specifications

Camera

[System]

Camera type: Interchangeable lens

digital camera

Lens: E-mount lens

[Image sensor]

Image sensor: 23.5 × 15.6 mm (APS-C

format) CMOS image sensor

Total pixel number of image sensor:

Approx. 16 700 000 pixels

Effective pixel number of camera:

Approx. 16 100 000 pixels

[Anti-dust]

System: Charge protection coating on

Low-Pass Filter and ultrasonic
vibration mechanism

[Auto focus system]

System: Contrast detection system
Sensitivity range: EV0 to EV20 (at ISO

100 equivalent, with F2.8 lens)

[Exposure control]

Metering method: 1 200-segment

metering by the image sensor

Metering range: EV0 to EV20 (at ISO

100 equivalent, with F2.8 lens)

ISO sensitivity (Recommended

exposure index): Auto, ISO 100 to
25600

Exposure compensation: ±3.0 EV (1/3

EV step)

[Shutter]

Type: Electronically-controlled,

vertical-traverse, focal-plane type

Speed range: 1/4000 second to 30

seconds, BULB, (1/3 EV step)

Flash sync speed: 1/160 second

[Recording media]

“Memory Stick PRO Duo” media,
SD card

[LCD monitor]

LCD panel: 7.5 cm (3.0 type) TFT

drive

Total number of dots: 921 600 (640 × 3

(RGB) × 480) dots

[Input/output terminals]

USB: miniB
HDMI: HDMI type C minijack

[Power]

Used battery pack: Rechargeable

battery pack NP-FW50

[Others]

Exif Print: Compatible
PRINT Image Matching III:

Compatible

Dimensions (CIPA compliant):

Approx. 110.8 × 58.8 × 38.2 mm
(4 3/8 × 2 3/8 × 1 9/16 inches)
(W/H/D)

Mass (CIPA compliant):

Approx. 269 g (9.5 oz)
(including battery and “Memory
Stick PRO Duo” media)
Approx. 210 g (7.4 oz)
(camera only)

Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C

(32°F to 104°F)

File format:

Still image: JPEG (DCF Ver. 2.0,
Exif Ver. 2.3, MPF Baseline)
compliant, DPOF compatible
3D still images: MPO (MPF
Extended (Disparity Image))
compliant
Movie (AVCHD View):
AVCHD format (1080 60p or
1080 50p, original format)

Others

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87

Video: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Audio: Dolby Digital 2ch
Dolby Digital Stereo Creator

• Manufactured under license from
Dolby Laboratories.

Movie (MP4 View): MP4 format
Video: MPEG-4 AVC/H.264
Audio: MPEG-4 AAC-LC 2ch

USB communication: Hi-Speed USB

(USB 2.0)

Flash HVL-F7S

Flash guide number: GN 7 (in meters at

ISO 100)
Recycling time: Approx. 4 seconds
Flash coverage: Covering 16 mm lens

(focal length that the lens indicates)
Flash compensation: ±2.0 EV (1/3 EV

step)
Dimensions (CIPA compliant):

Approx. 35.9 × 23.8 × 42.7 mm

(1 7/16 × 15/16 × 1 11/16 inches)

(W/H/D)
Mass: Approx. 20.4 g (0.8 oz)

Battery charger BC-VW1

Input rating: 100 V – 240 V AC,

50Hz/60Hz, 4.2W
Output rating: 8.4 V DC, 0.28 A
Operating temperature range: 0°C to

40°C (32° to 104°F)
Storage temperature range: –20°C to

+60°C (–4°F to +140°F)
Maximum dimensions: Approx. 63 ×

95 × 32 mm (2 1/2 × 3 3/4 × 1 5/16

inches) (W/H/D)
Mass: Approx. 85 g (3 oz)

Rechargeable battery pack
NP-FW50

Used battery: Lithium-ion battery
Maximum voltage: DC 8.4 V
Nominal voltage: DC 7.2 V
Maximum charge voltage: DC 8.4 V

GB

Maximum charge current: 1.02 A

88

Capacity: Typical 7.7 Wh (1 080 mAh)

Minimum 7.3 Wh (1 020 mAh)

Maximum dimensions:

Approx. 31.8 × 18.5 × 45 mm
(1 5/16 × 3/4 × 1 13/16 inches)
(W/H/D)

Mass: Approx. 57 g (2.1 oz)

Lens

Lens

E16 mm single
focus lens

Camera NEX-5ND

Equivalent
35 mm-format focal

1)

length

(mm)

Lens

24 27 - 82.5 82.5 - 315

5-5 9-11 9-13

E18 – 55 mm
zoom lens

NEX-5ND/5NK/
5NY

E55 – 210 mm
zoom lens

NEX-5NY

groups-elements

Angle of view

Minimum focus

1)

2)

83° 76° - 29° 28.2° - 7.8°

0.24 (0.79) 0.25 (0.82) 1.0 (3.28)

(m (feet))

Maximum

0.078 0.3 0.225

magnification (×)

Minimum f-stop f/22 f/22 - f/32 f/22 - f/32

Filter diameter

49 49 49

(mm)

Dimensions (max.
diameter × height)

62.0 × 22.5

(2 1/2 × 29/32)

62.0 × 60.0

(2 1/2 × 2 3/8)

63.8 × 108

(2 5/8 × 4 3/8)

(mm (in.))

Mass (g (oz.)) 67 (2.4) 194 (6.8) 345 (12.2)

Compensation

3)

effect

1)

The values for equivalent 35 mm-format focal length and angle of view are based
on digital cameras equipped with an APS-C sized image sensor.

2)

Minimum focus is the shortest distance from the image sensor to the subject.

3)

Shutter speed (differs with shooting conditions)

4)

The optical shake compensation function is not available.

4)

–

Approx. 4 steps Approx. 4 steps

Others

Design and specifications are subject to change without notice.

GB

89

On focal length

The picture angle of this camera is
narrower than that of a 35 mm-format
film camera. You can find the
approximate equivalent of the focal
length of a 35 mm-format film camera,
and shoot with the same picture angle,
by increasing the focal length of your
lens by half.
For example, by using a 50 mm lens,
you can get the approximate equivalent
of a 75 mm lens of a 35 mm-format
film camera.

On image data
compatibility

• This camera conforms with DCF

(Design rule for Camera File system)
universal standard established by
JEITA (Japan Electronics and
Information Technology Industries
Association).

• Playback of images recorded with

your camera on other equipment and
playback of images recorded or
edited with other equipment on your
camera are not guaranteed.

Trademarks

• is a trademark of Sony

Corporation.

• “Memory Stick,” , “Memory

Stick PRO,” ,
“Memory Stick Duo,”

Stick PRO Duo,”

Stick PRO-HG Duo,”

Stick Micro,” “MagicGate,” and

Sony Corporation.

• “InfoLITHIUM” is a trademark of

Sony Corporation.

GB

, “Memory

are trademarks of

90

, “Memory

, “Memory

• “PhotoTV HD” is a trademark of
Sony Corporation.

• DVDirect is a trademark of Sony
Corporation.

• Blu-ray Disc™ and Blu-ray™ are
trademarks of the Blu-ray Disc
Association.

• “AVCHD” and “AVCHD” logotype
are trademarks of Panasonic
Corporation and Sony Corporation.

• Dolby and the double-D symbol are
trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

• Microsoft, Windows, and Windows
Vista are either registered trademarks
or trademarks of Microsoft
Corporation in the United States and/
or other countries.

• HDMI, the HDMI logo and High­Definition Multimedia Interface are
trademarks or registered trademarks
of HDMI Licensing LLC.

• Macintosh and Mac OS are
trademarks or registered trademarks
of Apple Inc.

• PowerPC is a registered trademark of
IBM Corporation in the United
States.

• Intel, Intel Core, and Pentium are
trademarks or registered trademarks
of Intel Corporation.

• SDXC logo is trademarks of SD-3C,
LLC.

• Eye-Fi is a trademark of Eye-Fi Inc.

• MultiMediaCard is a trademark of
MultiMediaCard Association.

• “ ” and “PlayStation” are registered
trademarks of Sony Computer
Entertainment Inc.

• Adobe is a registered trademark or a
trademark of Adobe Systems
Incorporated in the United States and/
or other countries.

• In addition, system and product
names used in this manual are, in
general, trademarks or registered

trademarks of their respective
developers or manufacturers.
However, the ™ or ® marks are not
used in all cases in this manual.

• Add further enjoyment with your
PlayStation 3 by downloading the
application for PlayStation 3 from
PlayStation Store (where available.)

• The application for PlayStation 3
requires PlayStation Network
account and application download.
Accessible in areas where the
PlayStation Store is available.

Others

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91

Index

Numerics

3D Sweep Panorama.................... 46

3D Viewing.................................. 54

A

AF Illuminator ............................. 59

AF Micro Adj. ............................. 61

AF/MF Select............................... 56

Anti Motion Blur ......................... 45

Aperture Priority.......................... 47

Area Setting ................................. 61

Aspect Ratio................................. 57

Auto Review ................................ 59

Autofocus Area............................ 56

Autofocus Mode .......................... 56

B

Background Defocus Control ...... 39

Battery pack................................. 15

Beep ............................................. 61

C

Charging time .............................. 15

Cleaning Mode............................. 62

Color Space.................................. 60

Computer ..................................... 65

Cont. Shooting............................. 42

Control wheel............................... 33

Creating a disc of movies ............ 68

Creative Style............................... 58

CTRL FOR HDMI....................... 62

Custom Key Settings ................... 61

D

Date/Time Setup.......................... 61

Delete........................................... 32

Demo Mode ................................. 62

DISP Button(Monitor) ................. 57

Display Card Space...................... 62

GB

Display Color............................... 61

92

Display Contents......................... 43

Drive Mode ................................. 56

DRO/Auto HDR.......................... 58

DVD ............................................ 69

E

Enlarge ........................................ 52

Enlarge Image ............................. 52

Exposure compensation .............. 41

Eye-Fi Setup................................ 62

Eye-Start AF................................ 60

F

Face Detection............................. 56

Face Registration......................... 56

File Format.................................. 57

File Number ................................ 62

Fill-flash...................................... 48

Finder Display(DISP).................. 57

FINDER/LCD Setting................. 59

Flash ............................................ 23

Flash Comp. ................................ 58

Flash Mode.................................. 48

Folder Name................................ 62

Format ......................................... 62

Front Curtain Shutter................... 60

G

Grid Line ..................................... 60

H

Handbook .................................... 77

Hand-held Twilight..................... 45

HDMI Resolution........................ 62

Help Guide Display..................... 61

Help Guides................................. 37

High ISO NR............................... 60

I

Icons ............................................ 73

Image Index ................................. 53

Image Size ................................... 49

Install ........................................... 65

Intelligent Auto............................ 44

ISO............................................... 58

L

Landscape .................................... 45

Language...................................... 61

LCD Brightness ........................... 61

LCD Display (DISP).................... 56

Lens.............................................. 19

Lens Comp.: Chro. Aber.............. 60

Lens Comp.: Distortion ............... 60

Lens Comp.: Shading................... 60

Live View Display....................... 59

Long Exposure NR ...................... 60

Peaking Color.............................. 60

Peaking Level.............................. 60

Photo Creativity .......................... 38

Picture Effect......................... 40, 58

Playback...................................... 30

Playback Display......................... 61

Playback on TV........................... 54

Playback zoom ............................ 52

PMB ............................................ 67

Portrait......................................... 45

Power Save.................................. 61

Prec. Dig. Zoom.......................... 56

Program Auto.............................. 44

Protect ......................................... 59

Q

Quality......................................... 57

M

Macintosh .................................... 66

Macro........................................... 45

Manual Exposure ......................... 44

Memory card................................ 21

Menu ............................................ 55

Menu start .................................... 61

Metering Mode ............................ 58

MF Assist..................................... 60

MF Assist Time ........................... 60

Moisture condensation................. 84

Movie........................................... 29

Movie Audio Rec......................... 61

N

New Folder .................................. 62

Night Portrait ............................... 45

Night Scene.................................. 45

O

Object Tracking ........................... 56

P

Panorama ..................................... 46

Panorama Direction..................... 57

R

Record Setting............................. 57

Recover Image DB...................... 62

Red Eye Reduction...................... 59

Release w/o Lens......................... 60

Reset Default............................... 62

Rotate .......................................... 59

S

Scene Selection ........................... 45

Scroll playback............................ 46

Select Shoot. Folder .................... 62

Self-timer..................................... 41

Self-timer(Cont).......................... 42

Setting the clock.......................... 25

Setup............................................ 59

Shoot Mode................................. 44

Shooting still images................... 27

Shooting Tip List......................... 56

Shooting tips................................ 37

Shutter Priority ............................ 47

Slide Show .................................. 58

Smile Shutter............................... 56

Soft keys...................................... 34

Others

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93

Soft Skin Effect............................ 56

Software....................................... 65

Sony Image Data Suite ................ 67

Spd Priority Cont. ........................ 43

Specifications............................... 87

Specify Printing........................... 59

Sports Action ............................... 45

SteadyShot ................................... 60

Sunset........................................... 45

Sweep Panorama.......................... 46

T

Touch Operation .......................... 61

U

Upload Settings............................ 62

USB Connection.......................... 62

V

Version......................................... 62

View Mode .................................. 58

Viewfinder Bright........................ 61

Volume Settings........................... 59

W

White Balance.............................. 58

Wide Image.................................. 61

Wind Noise Reduct...................... 61

Windows...................................... 65

94

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